The start of summer generally marks the start of the malaria season in South Africa.  Due to higher temperatures and increased rainfall in the malaria transmission areas, mosquitoes transmitting the decrease breed and start spreading the disease.

People travelling to malaria-endemic areas should take appropriate precautions.  Make every effort to reduce contact with mosquitoes.  For example, limit outdoor activity after dark, cover up bare skin (including feet and ankles), use mosquito repellents, close mosquito screens on windows and use bed nets, fans or air-conditioning, if available.  These precautions will substantially reduce the chance of acquiring malaria, however the risk is never completely removed.  Travellers should consider taking antimalarial prophylaxis, particularly if travelling to high-risk areas.

People returning from malaria transmission areas, including very low-risk ones, should screen for malaria when any “flu-like illness” (headache, fever, chills, fatigue, muscle and joint pain) occur up to three weeks after first potential exposure.

Particular care should be taken with children, as symptoms are very nonspecific (fever, loss of appetite and vomiting).

Malaria can rapidly progress to severe illness, often with consequences.  The early diagnosis and treatment of malaria is important.

For more information on malaria (facts, symptoms, prevention, etc.), click here.

For more information on malaria testing, click here.